ramrod
ramrod Lexical Profile
ramrod Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A long, slender rod made of metal or wood used for packing the charge into a muzzle-loading firearm or for cleaning the barrel of a gun.
"The historical reenactor carefully used a wooden ramrod to tamp down the powder in the antique musket."
American A strict overseer, foreman, or manager who drives a crew or organization with firm authority, historically the boss of a cattle drive or ranch crew.
"As the ramrod of the construction crew, he made sure every phase of the bridge project stayed on schedule."
• adjective
Characterized by extreme stiffness, straightness, or inflexibility in posture or manner.
"The drill instructor maintained a ramrod posture throughout the entire inspection ceremony."
• verb
North American To force, push, or drive a proposal, bill, or course of action through to completion against opposition or resistance.
"The committee chair attempted to ramrod the controversial zoning bill through the council before the summer recess."
North American To supervise, direct, or manage an operation, project, or group of workers with firm authority.
"She was hired to ramrod the logistics overhaul and ensure all regional warehouses met the new efficiency targets."
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in the mid-18th century as a compound of the verb "ram" (to pack or force down) and the noun "rod," originally referring to the stick used to load muzzle-loading firearms.